African leaders commit to achieve self-reliance

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By Times Reporter

African leaders on Monday concluded their 21st Ordinary Session of the African Union session by committing to create an integrated and prosperous Africa.

In his closing remarks, AU Chairperson and Ethiopia Prime Minister Hailemarian Desalegn expressed the renewed dedication of member states:

“We are committing ourselves and our people to achieve the goals we have set for ourselves for a greater united continent at peace with itself and with a strong voice in international affairs.”

The session which coincided with the celebration of the 50th anniversary to of African Union, was also attended by President Paul Kagame.

Speaking on the meaning of the 50th Anniversary of the African Union, Minister Mushikiwabo told journalists that independence is a process; it's not just a flag and an anthem. 

“We still have a long way to go. This anniversary is also at a time of reflection on what we should do as a continent to liberate ourselves not only economically but also politically. We need to create in our relationship with international actors the kind of dialogue that allows us to promote the interests of Africa and to be part of the global discussion,” she said.

United against ICC

Members of the African Union also demonstrated a united front against the current bias towards Africa that continues to characterise the work of the International Criminal Court.

The Summit adopted a resolution calling on the transfer of the ICC cases against Kenyan leaders to the country's courts, which they described as a competent judiciary system.

In a press conference on the back of the Summit, the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, outlined the priorities agreed during the just concluded summit including the need for economic sovereignty, accelerating integration, involving citizens in AU decisions and increasing investment in infrastructure to connect Africa and facilitate industrialisation and trade.